142 / 144 / 145

1966-1974 / Sedan / Estate / Sweden

All 142 / 144 / 145 problems All workshop issues

Critical Electrical

Wiring Loom Corrosion and Brittle Insulation

Symptoms

Intermittent faults, instruments cutting out, no start, flickering lights, burning smell, smoke from under the dash.

Cause

50-year-old insulation cracks and shorts. Moisture corrodes bullet connectors, crimps, and fuse blocks. Rats and mice chew wiring.

Fix

Trace faults systematically with a multimeter.

Clean or replace corroded connectors.

Re-solder dodgy crimps.

Wrap bare wires in heat-shrink or proper automotive loom tape.

If the loom is truly rotten, aftermarket replacement looms are available, fitting one is a week-long job but worth it for peace of mind.

Always carry spare fuses, a test light, and a basic wiring diagram.

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Other known issues

Common Electrical

Alternator Failure or Weak Charging

Battery warning light stays on, dim lights, flat battery after short drives, voltage drops below 13V at idle (with engine running).

Critical Electrical

Faulty Ignition Switch or Starter Relay

Key turns but nothing happens, no dash lights, intermittent starting, click but no crank, or starter spins continuously.

Common Engine

Oil Leaks from Front and Rear Crankshaft Seals

Persistent weeping or pooling of oil beneath the engine, especially at the front timing cover or rear main seal area. You'll see oil misting onto the bellhousing or dripping from the sump.

Common Engine

Worn Valve Guides and Oil Consumption

Blue smoke on startup or deceleration, fouled spark plugs, rising oil consumption between changes (more than half a litre per 1,000 km).

Common Engine

Carburettor Issues (SU or Zenith-Stromberg)

Rough idle, hesitation, stalling when cold, flat spots under acceleration, poor fuel economy, black exhaust smoke.

Critical Engine

Worn Timing Chain or Belt Tensioner

Rattling or slapping noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup or idle. Loss of power, poor running, or misfires if timing has jumped.

View all 21 142 / 144 / 145 problems